Tony Cowell
BEST’S CELEB INSIDER TALKS TO LEO SAYER
Leo Sayer is one of the most successful singers of his time, with hits including You Make Me Feel Like
Dancing. He turned 70 last month, and is still making music. He’s topped the charts and faced financial ruin over a colourful 45-year career, but says he wouldn’t change a thing. You have never stopped working since the 70s, have you? It feels that way. I’ve just turned 70 and I think doing what I know best keeps me young. I always imagined this latter part of my life would be the best of times, and it is.
Do you ever think about retiring?
No. Not for one moment. I think once you take on that mindset, you just give up and grow old. I am still learning how best to live my life and I’m not finished yet. I want to keep giving – I think there’s a bit of destiny about it.
You have written songs for so many artists, including Cliff Richard. Do you still enjoy the writing process?
I love it. I have two new albums ready to go. I write and produce them all myself. I have so many loyal fans, particularly in the UK. I’m also writing my memoirs at the moment, which is keeping me busy and making me remember all the things that happened in my life. It’s also about putting the record straight.
How supportive were your parents when you told them you wanted to be a singer?
At first, my dad wasn’t really very happy about it. He wanted me to do something sensible with my life – and